The granite capstone of the Brownshill Dolmen is believed to weigh more than 100 tonnes and is considered the largest of its kind in Europe. The dolmen is thought to be between 4,900 and 5,500 years old and is an important example of early Neolithic architecture. These two dimensions alone—its weight and age—make an impressive introduction to County Carlow’s early history.
Early History and Town History
The church ruins at St Mullins also tell of a long religious history: they include five churches and the remains of a round tower. Clonmore is another early Christian site, in the northeastern part of County Carlow.
In Carlow Town, the Carlow County Museum documents County Carlow’s history through the centuries. Its four galleries showcase objects of archaeological, historical and cultural significance. Carlow Castle stands at the confluence of the River Barrow and the River Burren; it was built in the early 13th century. The self-guided Carlow Town Heritage Trail takes you through the history and heritage of the medieval town of Carlow.
Routes Through Towns and Landscapes
The Mount Leinster Heritage Drive is a 75 km driving route through the rural landscape of southern County Carlow. It passes through Borris, Bunclody, Clonegal, Kildavin, Myshall, Fennagh and Bagenalstown. Distinctive road signs point the way, and large information boards with additional details are located in the centres of each village and town.
The Barrow Way offers a different perspective: it stretches for 113 km from County Kildare to the monastic village of St Mullins in the south of County Carlow, following the towpath along the River Barrow. In County Carlow, the Columban Way follows the Barrow Way from the early Christian site of St Mullins. Along the route, visitors can follow in the footsteps of the 6th-century Irish monk St Columbanus. The South Leinster Way begins in Kildavin in eastern County Carlow and continues to Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary.
Forest Trails and Nature Experiences
Activities at Blackstairs Eco Trails include mountain hiking, workshops on foraging for edible wild plants, and a Celtic Tree Trail. A hands-on workshop takes you into woods, fields and hedgerows to look for safe wild foods. This brings physical activity together with learning about edible plants.
The signposted Windfarm Loop is in the Kilbrannish Forest Recreation Area North in the Blackstairs Mountains. The 3 km circular trail is suitable for families with young children. Gowlin Forest has two trails, one over 2 km and the other over 4 km. Along the trails, you can spot deer, squirrels, kestrels, buzzards and feral goats. The trail lengths give you a clear guide when choosing between the two routes.
Gardens for the Senses
The Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow Town comprise 16 interconnected gardens across 2.5 acres. Their concept focuses on the five basic human senses: touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. The gardens bring together a manageable number of specific themes with a variety of sensory experiences.
The Carlow Garden Trail currently includes 21 different garden attractions, as well as three more gardens in the neighbouring counties of Kildare and Wexford. As the number may change, check the current list before planning your visit. The Chocolate Garden of Ireland offers another hands-on experience, with chocolate-making sessions and workshops. Online bookings are available; groups of 15 or more should book by phone. As booking arrangements may change, check the latest details in advance. The offering also includes a free play area for younger children.
Check Tour Times
Free guided tours at Duckett’s Grove are offered Friday to Sunday at 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. Times may vary; check the current schedule before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Leighlinbridge, Bunclody, Killerig, Carlow, Tullow, Ballon, Muine Bheag, Rathvilly, Borris, Hacketstown
For the overview of the wider region: Leinster.
